Minority leaders in Bangladesh protest arrest of Hindu youth, demand immediate release

Thousands of members of Bangladesh's minority communities staged a protest in Dhaka, demanding the release of a Hindu youth who they allege was arrested on fabricated money laundering charges. The demonstration, organised by the Bangladesh Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Unity Council outside the National Press Club, saw community leaders accuse authorities of targeting religious minorities and suppressing their rights.

The protests followed the arrest of Haridas Chandra Tarani Das, who had reportedly initiated the construction of an 81-foot statue of Lord Ram in Gaibandha district. Community leaders claimed the legal case against him was politically motivated and urged the government to immediately release him.

During the rally, speakers also raised concerns over what they described as a rise in attacks on minority communities, including incidents involving places of worship and religious figures.

Protest organisers warned that if authorities fail to address their concerns and ensure justice, they would intensify their agitation through larger demonstrations across the country. The protests come amid continuing discussions over minority rights and religious freedom in Bangladesh, with calls for stronger action to safeguard vulnerable communities.